Sr. Thomas Welder to earn prestigious award

BISMARCK, ND — Catholic Charities North Dakota is celebrating 90 years of compassion, action and hope. The public is invited to attend this year’s annual celebration Tuesday, Oct. 15, 11:30 a.m., at the Fargo Holiday Inn. This year’s Caritas Award recipient is former University of Mary President, Sister Thomas Welder.

The Caritas Award is given annually in recognition of those exemplifying faith, hope and love to the least of God’s people.

Welder, whose presidency spanned 31 years from 1978 to 2009, was believed to be the longest serving female, college president in the United States at the time of her resignation. Active in community, state, and national professional, civic, and religious organizations, she has promoted and modeled the Benedictine values, carrying forth her joy in service. Her many civic and academic honors include the prestigious 2004 Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Award — presented to select individuals who have achieved national recognition, reflecting credit and honor upon North Dakota and its citizens. Following her retirement in June 2009, she was made an honorary alumna of the University of Mary and named president emerita.

Special guest speaker for the event will be the Most Reverend John T. Folda, bishop for the Diocese of Fargo. Advanced tickets are required. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.CatholicCharitiesND.org or by calling (701) 235-4457.